Pulmonary lipoblastoma: a case report

Update of Pediatric Lipomatous Lesions: A Clinicopathological, Immunohistochemical and Molecular Overview

Lipomatous neoplasms are a rare entity in the pediatric population, comprising less than 10% of soft tissue tumors in the first two decades of life. Some characteristics of pediatric adipocytic tumors are analogous to their adult counterparts, some pediatric lipomatous lesions however harbor unique features. In recent years, there have been significant advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis and hence in the classification and treatment of pediatric adipocytic tumors. This literature-based article will provide a review of the presently known clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular features of pediatric lipomatous lesions.

Lipoblastoma with unique localization requiring tracheal and esophageal resection

Lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis are rare tumors of infancy. They originate from embryonic fat and localize in soft tissues. We present the case of a lipoblastoma of the neck with localization in tracheal and esophageal walls that required an extended laryngotracheal and esophageal resection. To our knowledge, this is the first report of such localization of this tumor.

Radiological-pathological correlation in lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis

BACKGROUND

Lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis are uncommon benign mesenchymal lesions that predominantly occur in infancy and early childhood.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the imaging and histological features of lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective review of the radiological and pathological findings in children with lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis treated at a single centre between 1997 and 2004.

RESULTS

Eight children (median age 18 months) had undergone imaging and surgery at our institution. An infiltrative growth pattern was identified at imaging in two children with lipoblastomatosis, and a well-defined mass in six children with lipoblastoma. In all patients, imaging showed a lesion composed mostly, but not entirely, of fat. There were no recurrences at follow-up of between 1 and 91 months.

CONCLUSION

In infancy and early childhood, the identification of a tumour composed mostly of fat should suggest the diagnosis of lipoblastoma or lipoblastomatosis.